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Successful Bond, Override Eections in 2019 a Good Sign
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your vendors, establish a better relationship. It will be very I tell candidates, don’t say who you won’t take money from
helpful in long term.” and then the focus will be on who you are taking money
from. It’s not a big deal. The news media will try to make it
The panel was asked about a controversy over perceived smell like something is wrong. It is absolutely within all of
conflicts between vendors and school campaigns when these companies’ rights to support local issues.”
vendors donate to a bond or override campaign and then get
contracts from a school district. Bond issues and overrides create opportunities for more
work and more jobs, he said, adding: “That’s what America
Orne stated flatly: “I’m doing nothing wrong by supporting is all about.”
public schools. I know we will benefit, but look the track
record. I’m not going to apologize for our engagement. Are Bentz recommended telling donors how their money will
some profiting? Probably, if they’re profiting and not giving be spent. For example, make sure they understand that their
back.” donation will go for more yard signs. “Have specific projects,
specific uses,” he said. “Don’t ask for general donations.
She recommended that school districts “fully engage your We have great business partners who do great things in the
business partners.” community. Asking for a general donation might not be as
successful as asking for money for signs. Tell them you ran
Karanjia suggested: “Don’t reach out to just one or two out of yard signs. They’ll be very happy to help.”
vendors. Reach out to all of them.”
Another tactic for generating support is texting. “It doesn’t
Bentz cautioned against having to defend who contributes replace regular mail or door to door, but it’s really effective
to a campaign. “If you’re talking about donations to a finding an audience that is likely with you and reminding
campaign, you’re off message,” he said. “Stay on message. them too vote,” Bentz said.
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